Russi

With a population of around 12,000 residents, this small town offers a genuinely intimate community feel while remaining large enough to support everyday services and amenities. It’s the kind of place where you can develop real connections with neighbours and local shopkeepers without feeling isolated.

For practical living, there are some important considerations. There is no train station in town, so you’ll need reliable access to a car or be prepared to arrange alternative transport for longer journeys. This is worth factoring into your decision if you value easy connectivity to larger cities or regional destinations.

Healthcare is an important factor for retirees, and while medical services are available locally, we cannot confirm whether English-speaking GPs are present in town. This is something you’ll want to investigate thoroughly before making any commitment, as communication with healthcare providers can significantly impact your quality of life abroad.

The town’s modest size and lack of rail connections suggest a quieter, more rural character than larger Italian towns. This appeals to many retirees seeking peace and authentic local life, though it does require a degree of self-sufficiency and planning. It’s worth visiting at different times of year to see whether the pace and facilities suit your retirement vision.